How to open a bank account in Poland: A step-by-step guide for foreigners

Opening a bank account is one of the first important steps for foreigners coming to Poland. It is necessary for receiving salary, paying for housing and utilities, as well as for everyday financial transactions. Polish banks offer a wide range of services, and opening an account for foreigners is a fairly simple procedure if you know the basic steps and requirements. In this article, we will look at how foreigners can open a bank account in Poland, what documents are required and what to look for when choosing a bank.

Why is it important to open a bank account in Poland?

A bank account in Poland facilitates many aspects of everyday life:

• Receiving yoursalary: Most employers in Poland transfer salaries by bank transfer, so a bank account is mandatory for employment.
• Paying bills: Many services, such as rent, utilities, and mobile phone bills, are paid through bank transfers.
• Online shopping: The ability to use the card to make purchases online or in physical stores.
• Convenience in traveling: An international bank card makes it easier to make transactions outside of Poland.

Basic requirements for opening a bank account

To open a bank account in Poland, foreigners usually need a minimum set of documents. Here is a standard list of what you will need:

1. Passport: The main document proving your identity.
2. Residence permit or Pesel: Although not all banks require a Polish Pesel number (citizen’s identification number), it can greatly simplify the process. In some banks, it is enough to provide the address of your temporary residence.
3. Address of residence in Poland: Some banks may require proof of your Polish address, such as a rental agreement or utility bill.
4. Certificate of employment: Some banks may ask for proof of employment or an income statement. However, this is not a requirement for all banks.

4 main steps to open a bank account in Poland

1. Choosing a bank

There are a large number of banks in Poland that offer services for foreigners. Among the most popular are:

• PKO Bank Polski: One of the largest banks in Poland that offers convenient conditions for opening accounts for foreigners. Here you can get an account with free maintenance if you meet certain conditions (e.g. monthly income or transactions).
• mBank: Offers modern online services with minimum requirements for opening an account. Suitable for those who are looking for convenient conditions for managing their account via a mobile application or online banking.
• ING Bank Śląski: The bank offers favorable conditions for students and young people, as well as a simple account opening process for foreigners.
• Santander Bank Polska: Has a wide range of banking products and offers favorable conditions for foreigners to open accounts.

2. Applying for an account

The account opening procedure may vary from bank to bank. Here are the main options:

• Visiting a bank branch: The most common way is to come to a bank branch in person with all the necessary documents. A consultant will help you fill out all the forms and answer your questions.
• Online application: Some banks (for example, mBank) allow you to apply for an account online. You fill out the form online, send scanned copies of your documents, and receive the card by mail. In some cases, you may be required to provide a video proof of identity.
• Through a mobile application: Many Polish banks have mobile applications through which you can open accounts. This is a quick way for those who already have an identity card and proof of residence in Poland.

3. Choosing the type of account

Banks offer different types of accounts, depending on your needs. Here are the main options:

• Current account (konto osobiste): A basic account for everyday financial transactions. You can receive your paycheck, pay bills, make card purchases, and withdraw money from ATMs.
• Savings account (konto oszczędnościowe): Used to accumulate savings. Usually has a higher interest rate on the balance than a current account, but is limited in the number of free transactions.
• Foreign currency account: If you need to make transactions in a foreign currency (e.g. euros or dollars), you can open a foreign currency account to make international payments or save in foreign currency.

4. Receiving your card and access to online banking

Once you have successfully opened an account, you will be issued a bank card. It usually arrives in the mail within a few days. You will also have access to online banking and a mobile app where you can check your balance, make transfers and pay bills online.

• Card for withdrawals: Banks provide debit cards for easy access to your funds through ATMs. Usually, using ATMs of the bank where your account is opened is free of charge, while withdrawals from ATMs of other banks may include a fee.
• Internet banking and mobile app: With internet banking, you can conduct banking transactions online from the comfort of your home. This is very convenient for paying utility bills, transferring money, and managing your finances.

What should I consider when choosing a bank?

1. Service fees: Check if there are any fees for maintaining your account, withdrawing funds, or using ATMs. Some banks may charge service fees if certain conditions are not met (e.g., regular deposits or a certain number of transactions).
2. Availability of branches and ATMs: When choosing a bank, consider the availability of ATMs and branches near where you live or work.
3. Mobile banking: In the modern world, it is important to have access to your account through a mobile application. Check whether the bank offers a user-friendly and functional mobile app.
4. Reviews and recommendations: Before opening an account, you should read reviews from other customers and find out about their experience with a particular bank.

Opening a bank account in Poland is a simple and important step for foreigners who plan to work, live or study in this country. Polish banks offer convenient and affordable conditions for foreigners, and the process of opening an account usually takes no more than a few hours. It is important to choose a bank that meets your needs and take into account fees, internet banking options and additional services. This will ensure that you manage your finances comfortably and make life in a new country easier.